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Nanaimo fire chief retires

Nanaimo fire chief Ron Lambert will retire Feb. 14 after a 44-year career in firefighting.

Lambert’s career began in 1970 when he joined the North Oyster Volunteer Fire Department at 16.

He became a firefighter with the city in 1981 and took over the position of fire chief in January of 2000, although his official appointment to the position was not made until May of that year.

Lambert has led changes in Nanaimo Fire Rescue by increasing skills, competencies and attitudes to raise the quality of fire service. Nanaimo Fire Rescue is recognized as one of the most progressive fire departments in the province.

Lambert also promoted a business approach within the department to improve cost efficiency by developing an expanded data and analysis system to identify risks, service demands and staffing to improve response times. He consolidated central Island fire dispatching services, directed growth of the emergency management program and developed a recognized and accredited fire and emergency response academy.

“Chief Lambert has a long history of service with the City of Nanaimo and has played a major role in the evolution of our fire rescue department and the protection it provides our community,” said Mayor John Ruttan, in a press release. “I wish Ron all the best in his well-earned retirement.”

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